Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, has declared his intention to retain control over all structures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) even as he moves to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Governor pointedly said that he would not allow the PDP’s internal structure in the State to be hijacked by thieves, opportunists or external actors who would use it to fight him.
Pastor Eno, who stated these at the State Executive Council meeting during which he hinted of his possible exit from the PDP, said that if anyone thinks that he would abandon the structures of the PDP while in the APC, such a person is mistaken.
Pastor Eno, who was elected on the platform of the PDP, emphasised his enduring respect for the party but expressed concerns about the current political landscape, which he said may not favour his continued candidacy under the PDP’s banner.
In his words; “I will continue and always continue to respect the Peoples Democratic Party, because without them, I wouldn’t be here, but the current signs do not convince me to run on that platform, much as I would have wanted to. Let’s pray that changes tomorrow”.
Governor Eno thereafter said that despite his new possible political realignment ahead of 2027, he would work to preserve the PDP’s structure so that members can work together and stay united.
He further said; “We don’t want outsiders thinking, ‘Oh, Umo has moved, let me come and hijack the party.’ Let the structure of the party remain intact. They have done their congresses; let them run”.
The position of Governor Eno has sparked a delicate balancing act in which he considers leaving the PDP, but maintaining strategic control over its grassroots machinery and leadership in the state.
Governor Eno also spoke concerning the trending rumours about the possible dissolution of the State Executive Council, saying that such insinuations were baseless and completely misleading.
Eno said; “Let nobody deceive anyone. I’ve been hearing stories that they plan to dissolve the State Executive Council. It is not going to happen. You can only leave this Council if you are not performing. Until I finish my first term, I am not going to dissolve the Council again.
“Cabinet loyalty must align with my political direction. If you are not with me where I’m going, you cannot be in my Executive Council,” he stressed.
Noticing the tension in his statement, Governor Eno quickly urged for peace and mutual respect among party members and stakeholders, saying; “Let us not fight. No matter where you are, you will always be my friend. We’ll talk about parties. We will compare notes”.
